Prediction...if this trip happens

Whining from the usual suspects on the Left...

Noted with respect by the general public!!!

Posted by: Proud K-W Conservative at February 18, 2006 09:20 AM

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Brilliant, respectful, important. I love it.

Posted by: Yukon Gold at February 18, 2006 10:13 AM

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Steve,
FYI,
Below is an email sent to Carolyn Stewart-Olsen, Harper's information perso on Feb. 3

From: joemolnar1@sympatico.ca
Subject: Afghanistan
Date: February 3, 2006 1:22:16 PM EST (CA)
To: stewac@parl.gc.ca
Cc: Harper.S@parl.gc.ca, MacKenzie.D@parl.gc.ca
Mime-Version: 1.0 (Apple Message framework v746.2)
Message-Id:
Content-Type: multipart/alternative; boundary=Apple-Mail-1--377537479

Carolyn,
Would it be possible for Mr. Harper to make an early first out of country visit be to Afghanistan to bolster our military?
What a magnificent gesture not only for us but for the people of Afghanistan as well.
Meet Karzai for a true democracy to democracy gesture!
Joseph Molnar
Woodstock, ont.

Posted by: Joe Molnar at February 18, 2006 10:27 AM

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I think Stephen's first trip should be Afghanistan.

The whole concern here is about image, message-sending and symbolism of the new Prime Minister, correct?

And that just happens to be Canada’s mission in Afghanistan.
Symbolic representation in the world community doing much needed humanitarian work in a worn-torn country.

Does the Canadian military in Afghanistan have the modern equipment, the personnel, the funding, and the political will to take the offensive against the terrorist al Qaeda/Taliban lingerers? Of course not. And nobody is asking them to.
(Do the Canadian soldiers have courage? Absolutely! I am not dissing the character and commitment of the Canadian soldiers. I question the role they have be thrust in to)

A symbolic trip to Afghanistan is in order.

Posted by: Pete at February 18, 2006 10:59 AM

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My son's on his second tour in Afghanistan right now, helping to train the Afghan Army in their attempt to counter the Taliban remnants. He's very confident of his men, their equipment and their role over there.

Would Mr. Harper bolster the morale of the brave Canadians who are risking their lives over there? Without a doubt. Would the proposed trip serve to repair the damage done to our Armed Forces by the corrupt Liberal regime of the last dozen years? Without a doubt. Should Mr. Harper make this his 1st foreign sojourn on behalf of Canada? Indeed.

Posted by: Alienated at February 18, 2006 11:44 AM

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A serious politician in charge, at last.

Posted by: The Prophet at February 18, 2006 11:45 AM

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Considering the way Canadian troops in Afghanistan have been all but reviled by the previous government, I think that would be a great first trip.

I don't think Bush will see anything negative in it, I think he'd approve.

Posted by: Jay at February 18, 2006 12:00 PM

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Is there a difference between a photo-op featuring hockey players and one featuring our army?

I am sure our soldiers are doing a fine job in Afghanistan, but what possible purpose - other than a photo opportunity - would be there for this purported trip?

Foreign trips are defining elements of a PM's term. If PM Harper wishes to go to Afghanistan, I would recommend that it be part of a comprehensive regional trip that would include India and China at a minimum, and possibly, Australia and Japan.

I am surprised that the PM has apparently decided not to go to Turin. The flag/torch handover ceremony would seem to be tailor-made for a new PM to make his mark, as would the opportunity to meet with a number of world leaders in an informal setting.

My recommendation would be to go to Turin, and plan the Afghanistan trip for later as part of a more comprehensive regional tour. If possible, the PM could stop over in one or more of London, Paris, Berlin and Brussels either en route to (or on the way back from) Turin.

The media will always complain. If you let them define you, soon they will begin to confine you.

Posted by: cb at February 18, 2006 12:20 PM

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Aghanistan and our troops are more important than Turin and our hockey team. The PM is making the right choice.

Posted by: Herman at February 18, 2006 12:33 PM

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Remember that Harper was critisized for not having traveled much? What other Canadian politician would dare to take our flag into the heart of adversity? God bless Canada.

Posted by: Chuck at February 18, 2006 12:46 PM

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What possible purpose? How about boosting the morale of Canadian troops over there? They've never gotten anything in the line of boosts from the previous Canadian government.

Harper is making up for previous neglect.

Posted by: Jay at February 18, 2006 12:58 PM

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re Jay's comments: You can boost the morale of the troops by visiting any number of bases in Canada.

Why would you spend a fortune - in resources and logistical planning time - to go all the way to Afghanistan, unless it is part of a more comprehensive regional tour?

It may be too late for Turin, but it would have been an ideal venue to start.

In the future, the PMO may be well advised to plan the trip first, and announce it afterwards.

Besides hearing from opinionated know-it-alls like us, it sends a wrong signal when the PM appears to test-drive his foreign trip plans before actually embarking on them.

Posted by: cb at February 18, 2006 01:26 PM

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Given that Team Canada has fallen 2-0 to the Swiss the trip to Afghanistan would be more beneficial.

Since Team Canada woefully looks like SWISS CHEESE; as they have never in history lost to the Swiss, I have to grudgingly concede to my brother in Geneva.

The bloodletting in Afghanistan is real while the 'bloodletting' in Turin is only of the spirit.

Perhaps PM SH can emphasize Afghan democracy, and
save the "hate" for the hockey arena where it may properly belong.

OH THE AGONY!!! 2 - 0 to the SWISS!!! OH FOR SHAME!!! I am apoplectic, shut out by the SWISS!!! with 49 shots on goal!!!

Oh hang it all, I need to cheer up. Where in GOD's good heaven is the SWISS chocolate??

Posted by: Hans Rupprecht at February 18, 2006 01:28 PM

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I'm speaking as an American, but I think going to Afghanistan would be a brilliant first trip for PM Stephen Harper. Based on what I've seen of our President visiting our military in various locations around the world and here at home, it seems to have a real and lasting impact on them. Although cynics on the Left dismiss such visits as mere photo-ops, if you are in the military, serving far from home, ultimately it is the leader of your nation demonstrating his support for your efforts and his respect for what you do. It sends a clear message that although the past government might have neglected, ignored, or essentially forgotten them, this government will not. It also demonstrates what a high priorities the military and peacekeeping are to the Harper government, as well as how important the establishment of new democracies is. I cannot imagine a more important trip for him to make, and for a first one, it's a brilliant choice, more so than a hockey match at the Olympics or a trip to the White House.
God, you guys are lucky to have Harper in office. That man is simply amazing.

Posted by: Jess at February 18, 2006 01:28 PM

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...just hope the Liberals don't convince the Taliban to uh, do something about Harper. Wouldn't put it past them, loss of power is a dangerous thing for the elite society we have here in Canuckistan.

But good for him, only thing is - DUMB. Nothing like saying "here's a bullseye". Should have done it like Bush and other US members. Just go there, surprize the heck out of everyone in the "gutsy" move and boose moral all the more.

This isn't like planning a trip to the vacation spa you know.

If anything it would have been more tactical to say you were going to Turin, but really go to Aftganistan. That way all the leftist CBC-Pravida and CTV-Tass would be howling about how unpatriot Harper was and yadda yadda only to end up with egg on their face when it is revealed he was always going to Aft'.

Like a two edged sword - surprize the local troops thereby boosting moral and show the liberal media for what fools they are.

cheers
tom

Posted by: tomax at February 18, 2006 02:26 PM

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According to today's National Post, Harper's foreign debut will be a North American summit with Bush and Fox in Mexico; the Conservatives are dismissing rumours of Harper making a dramatic trip to Afghanistan as too risky, given the new prime minister is not well-travelled and is a relative neophyte as an international statesman.

Posted by: rog at February 18, 2006 02:32 PM

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Prime Minister Steven Harper, GOD do I love the sound of that! I think that when we post we should remember to use his full title. His first trip, perfect! I am sure that he will get his eyes opened. For our troops, this is the best thing that could have happened for them. I will be so proud of OUR PM the first offical trip that he is representing our country. The first time in a long time (13 years) that I will not be ashamed when our leader leaves the country. Be safe Prime Minister Harper!

Posted by: MaryM at February 18, 2006 02:33 PM

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Afghanistan or bust!

A visit to Afghanistan to show support for our troops is the way to go. Not to take anything away from our fine athletes, but the mission in Afghanistan is much more important and fraught with danger for those involved. The military has been ignored and abused by the Liberals over the years. It is time to recognize their efforts and show them that they are important to us and are doing important work in the world.

Posted by: The Western Critic at February 18, 2006 03:22 PM

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One other reason to go to Afghanistan - we know that when SH gets there, the Canadians will still be there.

He could get to Turin for a US - Czeck game.

Posted by: Brian Gardiner at February 18, 2006 03:46 PM

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Agree. God bless our troops on a dangerous mission. Support for them by a PM is long overdue.

One my biggest disappointments during the debates, although I wasn’t surprised, was that Foreign Policy was never raised. How can we claim to be a sovereign nation yet have no discussion on FP, amazingly immature for a country that used to “punch above its weight�.

Our national identity of Health Care won’t matter if the Islamofascists win. So we’d better start getting FP to the centre of the stage. A visit by PMSH to Afghanistan is a great place to start.

Posted by: nomdenet at February 18, 2006 03:48 PM

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The Prime Minster's agenda will be set as he sees fit but it'd sure make my day to see him in Afganistan, in much the same way that Tom has suggested.

Head for Mexico by way of Kabul. I know if I was running patrols in that part of the world, it'd make a difference in my day.

Pat

Posted by: Pat at February 18, 2006 04:30 PM

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Wasn't it a Canadian born forward who scored BOTH goals for the Swiss team? Wasn't it a Canadian born goalie who shut out Team Canada? Swiss cheese, my ass!

Posted by: old squid at February 18, 2006 04:39 PM

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Yes, you are right old squid!!

Paul DiPietro used to play for the Montreal Canadiens and has been playing for the Swiss since 98-99.

Martin Gerber was a standout in goal as Canada's high-profile stars outshot the modest Swiss 49-18, including 24-1 in a desperate third period.

Just like Emerson getting traded to the Conservatives!! Ain't politics and hockey grand!?!

You can read it all here:

http://www.canada.com/nationalpost/news/story.html?id=5643ee10-46c8-4dd7-bc73-3097305994fc&k=37596

Prime Minister Stephen Harper should still go to Afghanistan, donning the duty flak jacket, and robustly armed body guard bristling with the latest goodies.

Should make a greater impression than our erstwhile hockey stars.

Posted by: Hans Rupprecht at February 18, 2006 06:27 PM

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Hats off to the PM. The LIEberal government had no use for the military as demonstrated by the way they treat their vetern and serving forces. Probably just knowing that the PM wants to hae his first international trip is for them, and the importance of their service in Afganistan.

I heard - I wish I knew if it was true or not - while the LIEberal defence minister was in the Gulf he went aboard a US helicopter instead of the one that was on the deck of the navel vessel from Canada. This - if true - probably destroyed their moral ... a LIEberal politician did not even trust their own armed forces to get him/her to another ship.

I suggest that he brings the new Minister of Defence with him. (It would also be great if he went to the base where they came from (Edmonton - I think) and took personal "messages" from family and friens. {At least that is what the CLOWN [C anadians L ove O ur W hole C ountry} party of Canada would do.}) Perhaps on the way back he could go to othe mid-east countries such as Israel, Cypress, etc.

This is good for Canada and our troops.

Posted by: Clown Party Of Canada at February 18, 2006 11:22 PM

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I can just hear the media if Harper does choose to go to Afghanistan... "Harper acting like a war hawk like his mentor, G.W. Bush..."

For me, I think a trip to visit the troops is a wonderful idea, provided it can be done safely. We've waiting too long for a decent PM to lose him to a sniper bullet overseas.

Posted by: Mac at February 19, 2006 01:00 AM

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A great idea, but not under these circumstances.

A trip to Kandahar can't be telegraphed to the enemy. Despite what others may suggest, it is a stand alone trip. The PM has to get in there in the morning and be on a plane before sunset. If the trip is combined with a visit to Karzai, their PM, then the logistics and security are tricky. It's simply too soon in Harper's mandate and the military's mandate in Kandahar to be planning stuff like this. It's asking for trouble.

Plan a barbeque in Kandahar in the middle of summer and the Liberal leadership race.

Posted by: PlaidShirt at February 19, 2006 03:07 AM

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Kudos to the man if he does go (I hope he does). I can't recall ever hearing of Martin or Chretien having the berries to even visit a military facility in Canada much less a dangerous place where there isn't a 5 star hotel or restaurant. Perhaps they were concerned that our troops would attempt to shoot their aircraft down, given the treatment the military has received from the feds since the 70's.

I agree that going unannounced would be a better idea. To be able to say "I was just in the neighborhood and thought I'd drop in and thank you for a job well done. We're all very proud of you." The instantaneous effect on morale would be incredible.

Nonetheless I think he should go just to let the troops know that his priorities lie with them and not a sporting event or a photo op with other national leaders.

Gerry

Posted by: gerryin montreal at February 19, 2006 03:31 AM

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I'm here in Alaska. I just stumbled upon your blog. It is very interesting. I'm an American who is married to a foxy woman from Winnipeg. I served 4 years in the Marines, half of that time on deployment. Boy, I can't describe the impact on the morale of your troops a trip to Afghanistan would make! I hope next time the PM goes he surprises them though. Seems a lot safer. God bless Canada and Semper Fidelis.

Posted by: Alaska Hobe at February 19, 2006 07:42 AM

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I believe it would be the best possible choice but also believe it should just be done not announced tell people he is going for a weekend break and zip over there

Posted by: brett at February 19, 2006 10:09 AM

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If he had won election previously, he would now be visiting our troops in Iraq. If he maintains a view that our troops would be an instrument of imperialism we'll see how abiding his public support really is.

Posted by: Bill at February 19, 2006 10:29 AM

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It will be interesting indeed to see what effect this move stirs with the Canadian public, and the left loving media...

How will they spin it?

As the "Harper puppet doing George Bush's will in Kandahar " or will they embrace the truth of a new leader among men, ready to make the hard choices rather than the easy way of a photo op at the Olympic games?

Posted by: at February 19, 2006 10:44 AM

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A trip to encourage our troops over there as his first overseas trip is beyond perfect. What I'd like to see happen on the same trip, would be a few C-130 loads of new military toys. Desert Camo uniforms, top-of-the-line night vision goggles, same goes for body armour, weapons and tactical communications. A real treat would be a half-dozen CH-47 helicopters.....you know, the ones that we sold to Denmark, and that are now used to carry our troops and equipment around the Afghanistan countryside as we speak. Shamefull way to conduct a military campaign.

Posted by: arctic_front at February 19, 2006 02:16 PM

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Bill: "If he had won election previously, he would now be visiting our troops in Iraq."

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Had he (Harper) won previously, we wouldn't be in such a mess of a country as it is right now...

Posted by: tomax at February 19, 2006 05:15 PM

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Regardless of how the liberal peanut gallery now feels about "photo-ops" that Bucky Dithers is no longer PM, essentially the fact is that Prime Minister Harper's first trip abroard sends a message to the country where his priorities in international affairs are.
If he went to Turin, what message other than he wants to go hobnob with the new royalty of Europe?
If he goes to Washington, what message other than "he's too close to GWB" (insert hissing and booing from the kook fringe).
If he goes to Afghanistan, the message is very clear that our men and women in uniform are first in his mind.

Its called leading by example.

Posted by: gimbol at February 20, 2006 07:06 AM

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To borrow from the Guinness ads, Prime Minister Harper visiting the troops in Afghanistan: Brilliant!

Lip service is fine for the journalists but face time with the troops on the front will be appreciated by those who are putting their lives on the line, and those who support them.

Posted by: Texas Canuck at February 20, 2006 05:01 PM

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Harper should delegate an envoy with the defence minister.

I know, Wet blanket and all that. Harper goes to Afghanistan for the gesture and political points. Impresses no one really, yet risks all.

Wet Blanket here, suggests he delegate. He can go later after we have sent more reliable radios, more elements of support and generally garner more support from other peace loving democracies.

The picnic is now over, or has no one noticed?

This is not boy scout camp anymore. The alert JiHADISTS ARE JUST DROOLING FOR A CANADIAN TARGET LIKE HARPER TO ARRIVE AT THE AIRPORT TO GET EVEN FOR Ezra's Western Standard offense.

Harper understands ROI. Far more important to stay at the wheel while the ship is still in rough water. TG

Posted by: TonyGuitar at February 22, 2006 01:16 AM

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What a waste of tax dollars....shows that Harper is more concerned with Afghanistan than Canadian citizens and the well being of this country. It's time for Canada to get out of Afghanistan, I think this mission has done enough damage.

Posted by: MM at March 13, 2006 12:04 AM

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